Rising artist and multi-disciplinarian Oliver Malcolm has released his much anticipated debut project, Are You Living in The Real World?, out now on all platforms via Darkroom/Interscope Records. An eight track effort that cuts through genre lines and mixes punk rock, funk, hip hop production and imaginative storytelling. The end result is a signature catchy, punchy sound that I can’t get enough of. The brilliant debut was written and produced largely by Oliver Malcolm between his two homes in Los Angeles and the U.K. In honor of the milestone, Oliver joined Zane Lowe earlier this morning for his show on Apple Music to share the single “Runaway” exclusively as the day’s World First premiere. Simultaneously, Oliver unveiled the official music video for the track directed by collaborator Kay Ibrahim. To watch the music video, click HERE.
Speaking on his debut EP and inspiration for the title, Oliver had this to share:
“Are You Living In The Real World?” is an introduction to the world of Oliver Malcolm. This EP was made between the UK and LA and is the sonic documentation of the first two years of experimentation with my own artistry. The prologue.”
Oliver Malcolm has been steadily releasing tracks over the past year in anticipation of his debut project all while gaining momentum and admiration from music critics like the New York Times, TIME Magazine, CLASH and Pigeons & Planes,who named Oliver an “Artist to Watch” last year. Are You Living in The Real World? is a project long in the making and one that marks Oliver’s transition from producer to bonafide artist and performer.
About Oliver Malcolm
Oliver Malcolm got his start early, teaching himself how to spin records at 12 years old. Shortly after, he downloaded Logic and taught himself how to produce–working with IDK, Aluna George, Joey Bada$$, Jay Rock, Masego, Tinashe and more. Now twenty, Oliver has developed his own voice. Touching everything from the production, vocals, songwriting, engineering, mixing and mastering. A multidisciplinary at heart, this is just the beginning of what music lovers can look forward to from the new artist.
MAYOR DE BLASIO, L+M DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS & TYPE A PROJECTS BREAK GROUND AT BRONX POINT AND THE UNIVERSAL HIP HOP MUSEUM
Hip Hop legend Nas, LL Cool J, Fat Joe, Borough President Diaz, city agencies, and hip hop luminaries took part in a celebration of the $349 million South Bronx development along the Harlem River waterfront
BP Diaz delivered a $4.2 million grant to launch the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s capital campaign
Mayor Bill de Blasio, Hip Hop legends Nas, LL Cool J, Fat Joe, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, City Council Member Diana Ayala, numerous city agencies, and hip hop luminaries took part in the official groundbreaking event for the first phase of Bronx Point. The event took place on Thursday, May 20, at the future home of Bronx Point at 50 East 150th Street in The Bronx. We were on location to cover this monumental ceremony in the birthplace of hip hop, the Boogie Down Bronx, and are excited to see the project come to life.
The much-anticipated $349 million mixed-use project along the Harlem River waterfront in the South Bronx is being developed by L+M Development Partners and Type A Projects, who co-hosted the groundbreaking ceremony.
Bronx Point’s first phase will deliver 542 units of permanently affordable housing to the Lower Concourse neighborhood, along with approximately 2.8 acres of public open space. Additionally, the project will deliver an array of cultural and community-focused programming, including the permanent home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, an early childhood space run by BronxWorks, and outdoor science programming run by the Billion Oyster Project. S9 Architecture led the design of the 22-story project, and the open space was designed by Marvel Architects in collaboration with Abel Bainnson Butz. Phase one of Bronx Point is expected to be completed by late 2023.
The event also served as the official launch of the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s capital campaign. The UHHM will celebrate and preserve the history of local and global Hip Hop music and culture past, present, and future, and is slated to open in Bronx Point in 2024. At the groundbreaking, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. announced that he would contribute $4.2 million from his office’s capital budget to support the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s capital campaign, which is one of the largest single funding allocations of the borough president’s tenure.
“New York City is building a recovery for all of us, and that starts with transformative projects like Bronx Point in the heart of the Bronx,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “From major investments in affordable housing to a permanent place to celebrate the music that has made the Bronx famous around the world, this project demonstrates what every real New Yorker already knows: there’s no stopping New York City.”
“Bronx Point is a complete reimagining of a dormant, underutilized piece of waterfront property that will create new affordable housing and long-anticipated amenities for the entire borough to enjoy, and I am proud to be a part of it,” said Ron Moelis, CEO and Co-Founder of L+M Development Partners. “The project will provide new open space with access to the Harlem River, a permanent home for the Universal Hip Hop Museum, and community programming with Bronxworks and the Billion Oyster Project. Bronx Point represents the best type of development a public-private partnership can offer our city, and I am thrilled that we have taken the first step towards enacting our vision for this project.”
“This groundbreaking at Bronx Point represents the culmination of deep partnerships and collaboration with the community, local elected officials, and city agencies,” said Ann Tirschwell, Partner at Type A Projects. “In particular, our work with the members and leadership of Community Board 4 has been uniquely formative. After more than two years of programming discussions, design charrettes, and planning sessions we have started construction on a new purpose-built open space for the residents of the South Bronx. With the delivery of this collaborative and award-winning design, we hope to provide more equitable access to the waterfront for all New Yorkers, regardless of zip code.”
“The groundbreaking for the first phase of Bronx Point is a tremendous step forward for our borough. Not only will this project create much-needed affordable housing units, but it will also activate underutilized space, open up more waterfront to public access, create new public spaces and retail amenities for community use. This development will combine two of my favorite things, history, and hip hop, bringing the Universal Hip Hop Museum to its rightful location in the birthplace of hip hop, The Bronx,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “Hip hop was born in The Bronx, and the inclusion of the Universal Hip Hop Museum as a part of this project will help showcase our role in the creation of that worldwide cultural movement for generations to come. That is why I was proud to announce that I am providing $4.2 million in capital funds to help make this project a reality.”
“Yesterday’s Bronx Point groundbreaking ceremony marks a win for the diverse, growing community of the Bronx,” said New York State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie. “Upon its completion, Bronx Point will become a cultural hub, providing Bronxites with new affordable housing, wellness, and cultural activity opportunities that I know will enrich the lives of many. I am elated to be able to witness this amazing project and would like to thank L+M Development Partners, Type A Projects, BronxWorks, as well as all of the elected officials and community leaders that assisted in moving this project forward. Investments to neighborhoods in the Bronx are investments to the growth and future of our great city.”
“The Bronx is the birthplace of hip hop so it’s fitting that the borough will house a museum dedicated to this legendary music and movement,” said City Council Speaker Corey Johnson. “But Bronx Point will be so much more than a world-famous tourist destination, it will offer our city much-needed affordable housing as well as space for early childhood and science programming. The City Council proudly supports this project, which will add to the vibrancy of the Bronx while it is addressing long-standing housing needs.”
“Yesterday marked a major step towards advancing the administration’s key investments in the South Bronx,” said Rachel Loeb, President, and CEO of New York City Economic Development Corporation. “By bringing affordable housing, waterfront access, and a range of cultural facilities including the City’s first Hop Hop Museum, we are creating a more equitable New York. We are proud to break ground on the BronxPoint to bring these much-needed community benefits to the South Bronx.”
“Today we celebrate the start of a tremendous project that will change so many lives for the better. More than 500 households, including formerly homeless New Yorkers, will have safe, affordable homes to call their own, as well as access to amazing open space and high-quality cultural and educational programming,” said HPD Commissioner Louise Carroll. “Thanks to L+M, Type A, the Universal Hip Hop Museum, and all of our development partners for making this culturally significant development possible that will anchor the community for years to come.”
“I was delighted to participate in yesterday’s groundbreaking event for the first phase of the Bronx Point project. Bronx Point will bring much-needed affordable housing and community space to the South Bronx, including waterfront access for a community that has for too long been cut off from the Harlem River and a permanent home for the Universal Hip Hop Museum”, saidCouncil Member Diana Ayala. “I am thrilled to see this mixed-used permanently affordable housing project finally getting started and congratulate L+M Development Partners, Type A projects and their partners as well as the Universal Hip Hop Museum on this transformative South Bronx project along the Harlem River waterfront.”
“New York State is proud to support the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, the birthplace of the Hip Hop movement,” said ESD Acting Commissioner and President & CEO-designate Eric Gertler. The museum’s modern, dynamic home will celebrate the artists and preserve the music that represented a new — and uniquely New York — sound that has become a cultural force across the globe and influenced generations of performers. Once completed, this new museum, reflecting the diversity of New York, will no doubt be a draw for residents and visitors to the Bronx and also serve as a hub for educational and local economic growth.”
“Hip Hop music and culture has been a source of inspiration and innovation since its outset,” said Brad Smith, President of Microsoft. “We’re incredibly excited for the museum’s groundbreaking and look forward to using Microsoft technology to help document, preserve, and tell the story of Hip Hop when the doors officially open.”
“The heartbeat of Hip Hop culture will live at Bronx Point, the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum,” said Rocky Bucano, Executive Director of the Universal Hip Hop Museum. “Documenting, preserving, and presenting the history of the culture for generations of Hip Hop lovers globally via exciting new tech innovations from Microsoft is thrilling. This partnership is truly a milestone for Hip Hop culture.”
“Bronx Point is a dynamic project that will serve its residents with permanently affordable housing, expansive cultural and community programming, and extensive outdoor green space,” said HDC President Eric Enderlin. “In addition to the 542 homes serving families across a wide range of incomes, including the formerly homeless, we also celebrate what will be the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum. I would like to extend my congratulations to all our partners for their efforts, which will benefit the Lower Concourse neighborhood for years to come.”
“Hip hop has become a global art form, but it could have only started right here in the Bronx,” said NYC Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Gonzalo Casals. “The diversity of New York City and the vitality of the communities of color in the South Bronx gave rise to Hip Hop, and made it into a powerful form of expression. It’s fitting that we honor that legacy here with the Universal Hip Hop Museum, which we’re proud to support as part of this major new development.”
“We are thrilled to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, the birthplace of one of the most influential musical and cultural movements in the world,” said the NYC Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, Anne del Castillo. “The museum will serve as an important reminder of the artists, community, and creativity that define our city as the creative capital of the world.”
“BronxWorks is proud to be a partner in the Bronx Point development, which represents an innovative and thoughtful approach to affordable housing in a community that needs it,” said Eileen Torres, Executive Director, BronxWorks. “As we look to improve economic stability in the neighborhood, especially after the crises created by the pandemic, the Bronx Point development offers a path forward for families, who will be able to afford their rent and access support services and childcare on site.”
“We are excited that Bronx Point will provide the community with welcoming spaces for a variety of activities, while also creating a waterfront landscape that prioritizes ecology and learning,” said Yadiel Rivera-Diaz PLA, ASLA, Partner at Marvel. “We engaged with various members of the community on more than 20 occasions to learn and better understand the needs of residents and businesses; their valuable feedback informed our design, which includes spaces for learning, areas for exercising and activity, a picnic section, and an area for children to play and explore. As shaped by public input, Bronx Point creates a strong link between the community and waterfront.”
“S9 Architecture tapped into the rhythm and movement of the site and the street to make the Bronx Point project both an anchor and a gateway to the neighborhood,” said John Clifford, founding Principal, S9 Architecture. “Our design not only reflects the dynamic energy of the neighborhood and urban context, but it also provides vital housing, cultural, public waterfront park and commercial assets to the community.”
“As part of the Bronx Point project, brand new green space will be added for the enjoyment of the entire community, further complementing Mill Pond Park,” said NYC Parks Bronx Borough Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa. “I would like to thank all of our partners for this wonderful park expansion which will be a hub of rest, relaxation, and recreation for decades to come!”
“Wells Fargo is pleased to be part of this historic project which will revitalize the South Bronx neighborhood and address the affordable housing needs of its residents,” said Page W. Travelstead, Managing Director of Community Lending & Investment at Wells Fargo. “We are proud to work closely with L&M Development Partners and Type A Projects on financing Bronx Point and are excited to see how the new housing units, retail space, and Universal Hip Hop Museum will spark economic development in the Bronx Waterfront area.”
“Yesterday we broke ground on a project that has the potential to transform the gateway to the South Bronx,” said Paul A. Philps, District Manager of Bronx Community Board #4. Bronx Point not only includes the activation of our waterfront with new affordable housing, expanded open space at Mill Pond Park, and the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, but it represents hope and a bright future for area residents. We are excited to see this critical project move into the first phase of development.
Bronx Point is located on City-owned land and is being financed through a combination of public and private capital, including financing from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), Empire State Development, Wells Fargo, and additional private funding. The overall funding includes $323.5 million for the building, along with $27 million for the waterfront esplanade’s construction from the NYCEDC.
In Phase One, Bronx Point’s apartments will be available for families earning between 30 percent to 120 percent of Area Median Income, along with apartments for the formerly homeless. Apartments will include 135 studios, 192 one-bedrooms, 122 two-bedrooms, and 93 three-bedrooms. Tenant amenities will feature an outdoor terrace for residents, on-site laundry, a children’s room, community lounge, bike storage room, on-site fitness center, and around-the-clock front desk security. The project’s second phase is anticipated to include additional housing units along with additional retail and community space. When complete, Bronx Point will include up to 1,045 apartment units.
Public space is also a central feature of Bronx Point. A grand staircase, designed to be a civic gathering space for the borough, will lead from the building itself down to the waterfront. The open space, across from Bronx Terminal Market, will feature a playground and landscaped area adjacent to the existing Mill Pond Park and the Bronx Children’s Museum to the north. An esplanade along the Harlem River shoreline will include a landscaped public walkway and seating areas. The space will also feature lawns, waterfront lookouts, an extended BBQ area, fitness zones for adults, and publicly accessible bathrooms. Collectively, these open space improvements will advance the City and community’s long-standing goal of providing access to the Harlem River waterfront and increasing public open space in the South Bronx.
Bronx Point will also include several spaces for youth and community programming and education. Development partner BronxWorks, a venerable Bronx social service provider, will provide supportive services for tenants on the site and operate an early childhood center. At the same time, the Billion Oyster Project will run an outdoor education program that utilizes the Harlem River. In all, the 530,000 square foot-Bronx Point will include more than 56,000 square feet of educational and community space, along with more than 12,000 square feet of retail space. The Prusik Group, L+M’s partner on Essex Crossing on the Lower East Side and the new National Urban League Headquarters in Harlem, will serve as the project’s Retail Development Advisor.
Along with the Bronx Children’s Museum, Hostos Community College, and Bronx Terminal Market, Bronx Point is within walking distance of borough institutions like the Bronx Civic Center district and Yankee Stadium, along with subway stations for the 2, 4, 5, B, and D lines.
Bronx Point is a key component of a $194 million capital investment strategy for the Lower Concourse neighborhood, announced by the de Blasio Administration in 2015 and led by NYCEDC. For more than two years, the development team and NYCEDC engaged extensively with the local community, including hosting open space design workshops and additional working group sessions with an array of local stakeholders. In the end, community members were able to directly influence the design and programming of the project’s open space and provide a range of ongoing feedback as the project progressed.
About L+M Development Partners
Since its inception in 1984, L+M Development Partners Inc. has been an innovator in developing quality affordable, mixed-income, and market-rate housing, while improving the neighborhoods in which it works. A full-service firm, L+M works from conception to completion, handling development, investment, construction, and management with creativity that leads the industry. L+M is responsible for approximately $10 billion in development and investment and has acquired, built, or preserved nearly 35,000 high-quality residential units in New York’s tri-state area, Washington, D.C., the West Coast, and Gulf Coast regions. Community leaders, government officials, and institutional investors turn to L+M because of its consistent track record of excellence.
L+M is a double bottom line company, where its success is measured not only in financial returns but also by positive impacts. L+M takes pride in its long-standing partnership with the communities it serves, demonstrated through an annual scholarship fund, workforce development programs, after-school programs, and substantial support for local nonprofits. L+M brings a superior level of commitment to its investments in developments, and equally important, to its investment in people. For more information, please visit this website.
About Type-A Projects Type A Projects is a certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise dedicated to building affordable and inspiring places to live, work, learn and play. Type A was formed in 2013 to capitalize on the decades of nonprofit, commercial, institutional, and mixed-use development experience of two women individually and collectively focused on creating vibrant and affordable communities that underpin the diverse fabric of NYC.
Building on past experience managing the development of over 1,000,000 square feet of public schools and community facilities, Type A remains committed to impactful, civic-based projects that support NYC’s neighborhoods and communities. In 2016, Type A expanded its focus to include mixed-use and mixed-income affordable, senior and supportive housing. Type A has recently completed its first multi-family project as lead developer with their 115-unit senior affordable project at 1490 Southern in the Bronx. Within Type A’s portfolio are three joint venture developments including Bronx Point with its 542 units of affordable housing, 50-units of supportive housing for young adults aging out of foster care in Harlem with services provided by Homeward NYC, and an L+M/M-Squared project featuring 78 affordable rental apartments for low- and moderate-income households in Newark that will include a ground-floor clinic and hospital office space operated in partnership with University Hospital.
About the Universal Hip Hop Museum
Anchored in the birthplace of Hip Hop culture, the Universal Hip Hop Museum will break ground in the Bronx in 2021. Built as a space for audiences, artists, and technology to converge and create unparalleled educational and entertainment experiences, the museum is slated to open in Bronx Point in 2024. The UHHM will celebrate and preserve the history of local and global Hip Hop music and culture past, present, and future.
About BronxWorks
With over 40 locations throughout the borough, BronxWorks has worked from the ground up in Bronx communities for over 48 years to help residents build healthy, stable futures for themselves and their neighborhoods. BronxWorks helps individuals and families improve their economic and social well-being. From toddlers to seniors, we feed, shelter, teach and support our neighbors to build a stronger community. For more information about BronxWorks, contact Gianna Dell’Olio, Director of Advancement and Communications at gdellolio@bronxworks.org, or visit this website.
PUMA surprises with a new style to its popular Rider franchise, the Wild Rider. Neymar Jr’s favorite new shoe off-pitch was inspired by the movement and motion of city life.
PUMA ambassador Neymar Jr. is always pushing himself forward, making the Wild Rider the perfect shoe for his first major lifestyle campaign with PUMA. Not only is he known for his accolades on the pitch, but his style off the pitch also draws a lot of interest. As someone who is changing the game, he embodies the theme of the shoe, made to celebrate youth culture and mobility.
“As someone who loves streetwear, I was thrilled when PUMA approached me about being the face of a shoe outside of football,” said Neymar Jr. “You won’t take the Wild Rider off; I’ve been wearing it non-stop. É o meu favorito!”
This Wild Rider brings a whole new dimension to the Rider family, with fresh layers of material and futuristic circles at the midsole. Its premium design is inspired by the movement and motion of city life – always going forward, further, faster, and beyond.
“We consider the Rider family to be very much a constant evolving conversation; what started the Future Rider, which was very much linked to the Easy Rider II, has progressed into something that can stand on its own without being too obvious to the original inspiration,” says Danny Taylor, Design Lead Sportstyle Footwear. “With each release we are able to push the Rider product language forward, constantly evolving it season by season.”
The Wild Rider continues to play with PUMA’s futro design language. Taking archive inspiration from the Rider OG and elements from a ‘90s track spike, the design is a ‘collage’ of past and future melted together. The progressive design language of the Wild Rider includes unique design finishes like a formstrip that flows into a heel pull, “Designed by PUMA” emblazoned across the back, and the back of heel also juts out from a futro inspired accent, further playing on the idea of motion that serves as inspiration for the shoe. This drop features a nylon upper with suede overlays and a leather formstrip, along with TPU details on eyelet and heel and the signature Rider foam.
The Wild Rider, retailing for $100, will be releasing starting May 28 at select retailers, on PUMA and at the PUMA NYC Flagship store.
Celebrated, iconic band The Tragically Hip announce a brand-new album, Saskadelphia, out Friday, May 21.
Saskadelphia (Universal Music Canada/UMe) is made up of six previously unreleased tracks written in 1990. Five recorded in that same year during the Road Apples sessions in New Orleans, and one live track, “Montreal (Live from The Molson Centre, Montreal, Dec 7th, 2000),” written at the same time, but for which the original recording is yet to be found.
With no shortage of material and higher ups at the American record label resisting the band’s call to release a double album, countless tracks were left behind on the studio floor. And so, one album, Road Apples, heads out into the world, a rung on The Tragically Hip’s climb to legend status, while the rest of the tracks are tucked into boxes and moved out of sight.
Until now.
Welcome to Saskadelphia: the record that stayed in the wings as Road Apples hit the stage. The title,a term coined by the band in a nod to the extensive touring they were doing in the early 1990s, was the original working title for Road Apples before it was rejected by those same label execs as being “too Canadian.”
From lead single “Ouch,” which greets listeners with the familiar roaring vocals of late singer and lyricist Gord Downie, to “Not Necessary,” a song whose fiery sound is layered with gentle and emotional lyrics – are pure, undistilled The Tragically Hip, as Rob Baker (guitar), Gord Downie (vocals, guitar), Johnny Fay (drums), Paul Langlois (guitar) and Gord Sinclair (bass) lay the groundwork for their unmistakable sound.
“I went ‘Wow’ when I heard ‘Ouch’ after all this time,” says Rob Baker. “We were a pretty good little band.”
After rediscovering the tracks, they wrote more than three decades ago, The Tragically Hip knew they had to share the music with fans. Of these abandoned souvenirs from the past, Johnny Fay said, “We didn’t know what was there, so this meant baking them and listening to them as they were being transferred. Hearing them for the first time in 30 years was crazy.”
The Tragically Hip are set to receive the 2021 Humanitarian Award Presented by Music Canada at the 50th Annual JUNO Awards on Sunday, June 6, in Toronto. Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductees and rock icons, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of Rush will present the band with the award. The award recognizes outstanding Canadian artists or industry leaders whose humanitarian contributions have positively enhanced the social fabric of Canada and beyond. The broadcast can be streamed globally here.
Full Track List:
Ouch
Not Necessary
Montreal (Live from The Molson Centre, Montreal, Dec 7th, 2000)
Crack My Spine Like a Whip
Just As Well
Reformed Baptist Blues
About The Tragically Hip
Critically acclaimed for more than three decades, The Tragically Hip have been at the heart of the Canadian musical zeitgeist, evoking a strong emotional connection between their music and their fans that remains unrivalled. The five-piece group of friends – Rob Baker (guitar), Gord Downie (vocals, guitar), Johnny Fay (drums), Paul Langlois (guitar) and Gord Sinclair (bass) – grew up in Kingston, Ontario. The Tragically Hip have achieved both mass popularity with more than 10 million albums sold in Canada and over 1.5 million sold in the U.S, as well as peer recognition through 15 Juno Awards – picking up their last two for Group of the Year and Rock Album of the Year for Man Machine Poem. Their studio catalog includes their self-titled debut album The Tragically Hip (1987), Up To Here (1989), Road Apples (1991), Fully Completely (1992), Day For Night (1994), Trouble At The Henhouse (1996), Phantom Power (1998), Music @ Work (2000), In Violet Light (2002), In Between Evolution (2004), World Container (2006), We Are The Same (2009), Now For Plan A (2012), ManMachine Poem (2016) and Saskadelphia (2021). A National Celebration was the final show of The Tragically Hip’s Man Machine Poem Tour recorded on Aug. 20, 2016, at the K-Rock Centre in their hometown of Kingston, Ontario, and is their last performance as a five-piece band. Through their career, the band became a cultural touchstone in Canada and, despite their accolades and numerous recognitions, will always be proudest of the humanitarian work they have done over the years through numerous charitable organizations and causes.
See The Tragically Hip in a rare performance with Feist at The 50th Annual JUNO Awards, broadcast from Toronto on Sunday, June 6, 2021.
The Best Places to Live and Work Abroad in 2021—InternationalLiving.com
While just about every country is willing to provide a tourist visa that lets visitors hang around for a few months, most will not grant permission to live and work within their borders without a job offer from a local employer. Some offer long-term residence visas that let expats legally live in the country, but they don’t typically allow for work. A new report from the editors at International Living highlights four countries where it’s possible to find easy access to a residence visa—and the permits that allow for work as well.
It’s clear that an increasing number of Americans want a different life and are looking for countries where they can live and work legally. But the options are limited without a local employer willing to provide a job.
Expats able to earn from anywhere do have a few good options, however, according to International Living’s report. While a small collection of countries welcomes outsiders, who can qualify for the necessary visas, four in Latin America and Europe stand out as the best options in terms of cost, ease, and timing.
If your goal is to live and work remotely overseas, but remain close to U.S. borders, Panama is your best bet. Direct flights land in Panama City from at least nine U.S. cities and take between three and seven hours, depending on where you’re coming from.
Beyond proximity, Panama offers what it calls the Panama Friendly Nations Visa, a special program whereby nationals of certain countries (including the U.S. and Canada) can apply for permanent residence, which comes with a Panamanian cédula, the local ID card. That cédula is permanent, allowing holders to come and go as they please, as would a born-and-bred Panamanian. Separately, the program also allows holders to request a work permit through the Ministry of Labor, though that’s part of a different process.
Obtaining a temporary cédula takes about eight days. It will take another two days to obtain a multiple-entry visa that’s necessary so an individual can come and go as they wait out the roughly five-month process for the government to issue a permanent cédula. Once a cédula has been obtained, a person can then apply for a work permit from the Ministry of Labor, which will take about a month.
To start the cédula process, you’ll need basic documents—passport, proof from the FBI that there is no criminal record—and $5,000 in a Panamanian bank account, plus $2,000 for each dependent. And to obtain a work permit, then you’ll need to set up a Panamanian corporation (which can be disbanded after a year).
If speed is more important, then Uruguay is a great choice. Here, expats can land at the airport with the correct collection of documents, and if they already have a pre-scheduled filing date with the immigration office that day, they can file their paperwork and have a temporary cédula that afternoon or the next day. All that’s required is a birth certificate and an apostilled police record (meaning it has been authenticated and is acceptable across international borders). They will also need to show that they have the financial means to support themselves with a provable stream of income from anywhere in the world.
With a temporary cédula, they will also have immediate access to the state healthcare system, or they can immediately buy access with a local, private healthcare plan, which will cost about $70 to $350 a month, depending on the bell and whistles they want.
To manage the process themselves, expect to pay about $600 to $700. But they will also need to have a proficient level of Spanish, as none of the paperwork is in English. Otherwise, hire an attorney. It will be quicker and more efficient and will cost between $1,000 and $2,000.
Portugal has two visas that would apply to someone wanting to live and work on the Iberian Peninsula: D2 and D7. Technically, the D2 is for independent workers and entrepreneurs, while the D7 is for those who are retired or earning passive income. In practical terms, the D7 will make sense for most people, even if they’re not retired, because it’s based on income. The D2 requires proof that an expat can support themselves as a freelancer and can begin issuing Portuguese invoices on which the business will be taxed, though the tax rate is fixed at 20% for 10 years.
With the D7, instead, a person will need only to show that they have €8,000 (about $9,700) per person in a Portuguese bank account and that they have the equivalent of €30,000 ($36,400) in a bank account back in their home country.
To apply for either a D2 or D7 visa, an expat must enroll in the Portuguese tax system and become a tax resident. That requires obtaining a Portuguese tax number before they can even apply for a visa. And for that, they will need a sponsor, which can be a law office, accounting office, or migration office.
For that reason, they’ll need to hire a pro to walk them through the process and be their sponsor for the tax number. All in, that will cost you between €1,000 and €2,500 (about $1,200 to $3,000). The process will require two to four months to complete.
As a freelancer, an expat will also want to apply for Non-Habitual Resident status, or NHR, which is issued to people who’ve never lived in Portugal before and move to the country. With NHR status, income earned outside the country is exempt from taxes. They will have to file a Portuguese tax return and declare the income, though they’ll owe no taxes on it. The other benefit of this is that it shows Uncle Sam they’re a tax resident of another country, which then helps trigger their eligibility for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion.
A person is eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship and a passport after five years of residence, though they have to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language.
It’s a two-step process in Czech Republic. First step: apply to join the živnostensky (zivno) list. This isn’t specifically for foreigners. It’s a trade license for any Czech resident who works independently, be that a plumber, masseuse, artist, or whoever. That will take a week at most. Zivno in hand, they can then apply for a one-year, temporary residence visa.
They must apply for a residence visa at a Czech embassy outside of the Czech Republic, show they have housing (a notarized lease agreement) for the full-length of the visa they seek, up to one year. That means they’ll need to visit the Czech Republic to arrange that. Some expats will move to Prague, obtain their housing and zivno, then take the train to nearby embassies in Berlin, Vienna, or Bratislava and complete their application.
They will need a signed letter from their bank stating that they have the equivalent of 125,000 Czech crowns on deposit (about $5,700). That will need to be translated into Czech, which a visa agency can handle. Be sure the account has a debit card, which must be presented at the application meeting at the Czech embassy, because officials will want to see it—it’s proof that a person can access the account.
An FBI criminal background check is required, though as an American an expat can also go to the U.S. embassy in Prague and sign an affidavit attesting to their criminal-free background. Along with a passport and an application form, that’s pretty much all the documents an applicant needs.
To hire a local agency to help with the process, it should cost less than 15,000 crowns (about $685) for everything. The embassy fee is a separate 5,000 crowns (about $230).
Once the temporary visa expires after a year, it can easily be traded in for a renewable, two-year long-term residence visa. After five years as a legal resident, a person is eligible to apply for Czech citizenship and a Czech passport, which like the Portuguese passport, is an EU passport and thus gives them free rein to live and work anywhere in the EU.
The full report on the best places to live and work in 2021, including more information for immigration experts in each of the countries mentioned, can be found at: The Best Places to Live and Work Abroad in 2021.
International Living has launched its new “Work From Anywhere” resource, devoted to coverage of innovative money-making strategies, ways to build a portable income, tips for boosting health and well-being, methods to maximize Social Security, and so much more. More information can be found, here.
The cutest, trendiest, and most functional baby products:
Fashionable Bibs
Babies wear a bib every single time they eat. Why not make it a fashion statement? There are so many brands that offer functional and adorable bibs for your child to wear. Brands such as Bamboo Little, Saks OFF Fifth, Mud Pie, and Abby & Finn all offer affordable, fun bibs that range in prices from about $10 to $60.
Stylish Diaper Bags
Diaper bags are a must, and there are so many stylish and fun options out there. Brands have truly stepped up their game when it comes to diaper bags. Check out brands like Dagne Dover and Revolve for an everyday bag that will match all outfits.
Baby Sweatsuits
2021 is the year of dressing as comfortably as possible. This includes dressing the little ones comfortably, too. Check out Zara’s website for some super affordable and chic sweatsuits.
Organic Skin Care
Nourishing baby is, and will always be, important–no matter what age. Finding natural lotions, shampoos, and washes is for the baby’s health and hygiene. The brand’s Pipette, Evereden, and Honest Beauty offer the best skincare for babies.
Cooling Baby Clothes
Linen is known for being a cooling, airy clothing fabric. It is extra popular in the summer for those looking for a lighter clothing option. Countless shops provide cooling clothing for babies and are worth checking out.
Wallpaper
Using wallpaper is one of the easiest ways to spruce up a nursery or children’s bedroom. On Loomwell Home Goods, there are stunning wallpaper designs to fit your baby’s desires and achieve the perfect bedroom.
Rattan Furniture
A chic and boho trick to decorate the child’s space is using rattan furniture. On Poppys Little Treasure, there are so many options for bedroom and playroom furniture. They also offer adorable bassinets, which help achieve a beautiful nursery.
Handmade Decorations
Check out the small business on Etsy, Shop Little Grace. This shop offers handmade decorations for a baby’s bedroom, party, or anything other occasion.
Baby Headwear
There is nothing cuter than a baby in clips, bows, and topknots. Mae + Rae present the perfect looks for the little ones.
Electric Nail File
This product is a must-have for cutting baby’s nails. There is no worry in hurting the baby because it is super quick and gentle. Amazon has a great baby-proof electric nail file for only $20. Amazon’s nail file is made from sandpaper, which makes it extra gentle on babies.
It can be difficult to constantly entertain babies and toddlers, which is why iPads can be such handy tools. However, it can be hard to hand over your baby access your new, expensive Apple product with a fragile glass screen. That’s where ZAGG products come in! ZAGG makes safely entertaining your little ones their priority.
ZAGG Gear4® recently announced its new Orlando kids tablet case for Apple iPad 10.2-inch (7th, 8th gen). The Orlando is durable, lightweight and features sturdy adjustable arms that make it the perfect partner for any situation. The Orlando case is made with kid-friendly EVA foam with an inner border lining of D3O to provide up to 6.5 feet of drop protection. The Orlando iPad case for the iPad 10.2-inch (7th, 8th gen) is available today on ZAGG’s website with a limited lifetime warranty.
The Bodega
On Saturday, June 12th btw 4PM-8PM, 360 Magazine will host our intimate immersive pop-up shop, which will be reminiscent of a traditional Bronx Bodega. This po-up shop is a collaborative effort to elevate our brand’s priorities in popular culture and design (PC+D). We are looking to collaborate with and highlight local businesses in the Bronx. 360 Magazine works with LGBT-friendly, community-based organizations.
This boutique and private shopping experience will be held at the #360TRAP Bronx workspace. The event will feature #AOHSOA Trunk Pieces and lifestyle choices, specifically designed for consumers to live their best PC+D lifestyle.
The pop-up will possess a carnival theme that babies and kids will love! The Bodega will feature creative activities and decors compatible with this fun concept. The event’s open bar will run for four hours and feature signature spirits of mixologists, as well as festive tapas. This event will be a privileged opportunity to reinforce brand awareness and network among target audiences and sponsors.This summer event will also be the precursor for World Blood Donor Day (6/14) and Armon Hayes‘ birthday (6/16).
Feltman Brothers Baby and Toddler Clothing
With an Instagram following of almost 80K, Feltman Brothers consistently pulls out all the stops in posting beautiful photos of little ones wearing their distinctive collection of finely crafted, classic styled clothing and accessories. Playtime, celebrations, picnics, or summer christenings will all be comfortable, and memorable with Feltman Brothers summer selections for infants and toddlers.
From rompers and gowns to bibs and hats, the Feltman Brothers collections are the perfect choice for comfort and style, in classic designs that can be passed down for generations to come. Styles like the Vintage Smocked bodice Creeper and the Bobby Suits make for the most darling baby attire. Start the Feltman Brothers tradition with your family by visiting their website.
Green Sprouts’ Snap and Go Easy-wear Bib
Green Sprouts is a leading family brand that inspires healthy and natural parenting. Green Sprouts’ Snap and Go Easy-wear Bib is the perfect way to keep your little ones clean and comfortable. Babies can rock this celebrity-loved, water-resistant bib at mealtime that limits mess and spill emergencies. In fact, Usher recently shared the most adorable Instagram post with his daughter Sovereign sporting the Green Sprouts’ Snap and Go Easy-wear Bib.
This waterproof baby bib neatly rolls up and snaps to store utensils or small snacks in the pocket while on-the-go. The bib’s contoured design moves with baby and stays in place while on-the-go. Furthermore, the fabric is soft, light weight, machine washable, and stain and odor resistant. Green Sprouts products are made without azo dyes, formaldehyde, or PVC for baby’s health and well-being. For more information, please visit Green Sprouts’ website HERE.
ATTITUDE’s Natural Care and Cleaning Products
ATTITUDE is the trusted eco-friendly brand that conscious consumers turn to for all their baby care, home, personal, and pet grooming needs. This all-natural brand is committed to overall wellness for people, animals, and the environment. With these all-natural, sustainable products, you can be sure that your baby’s sensitive body, skin, and hair are getting the gentle care they require.
ATTITUDE is reducing single-use plastic, offer zero waste options, and plant a tree for every product purchased in partnership with two leading non-profit tree planting organizations. The ECOLOGO-certified brand’s personal care and household cleaning products are safe, effective, and hypoallergenic. Natural ingredients make up all of the brand’s products, with offerings that reduce single-use plastic with plastic-free and bulk collections. ATTITUDE makes it easier to adopt a natural, eco-friendly lifestyle at any age while keeping things clean and sanitary.
The Luli Bebe Monaco Bag
Sophisticated, sleek and luxurious, The eco-friendly Monaco backpack-style diaper and travel bags by Luli Bebe are one-of-a-kind. Monaco’s easy-carry and durable design make it the perfect, fashionable companion for everyday on the go use, as well as for weekend getaway or longer travels. These beauties are now available in a variety of posh colors.
Spacious and voluminous, the Monaco bags come in two styles: a backpack, which also functions as a diaper bag, and a classic handle-bag design. The backpack comes in two sizes, original and petite, and can also be worn across a single shoulder or in as a cross body bag. The bags are made of soft vegan, stain-resistant leather and boast a lavish satin-lined interior. Monaco bags will keep all of your travel items and on the go family gear stored in padded luxury. A trip across the country or just down the road is more practical and stylish with a LuliBebé Monaco bag.
This February, UK-based wallpaper and paint company, Graham & Brown, kicked off a year-long celebration of its 75th anniversary. Founded in Blackburn, Lancashire in 1946 by childhood friends, Harold Graham and Henry Brown, this business has been family-run for 75 years, proving that quality craftsmanship, sustainable practices and innovative design always stands the test of time.
As part of Graham & Brown’s 75th anniversary they have released a limited-edition “Through The Decades” collection that pays homage to the styles and tastes of the 1940s-2010. The full 8-piece collection is now available in the US + Canada.
An evocative tribute to the nostalgic, the Through the Decades collection reflects on the impact that each decade has had on home trends, and the ways in which wallpaper as a medium has embodied them.
As with every Graham & Brown wallpaper in the broader company collection, each Through the Decades design is paired with a complementary hero paint color as well as three coordinating hues to promote harmonious design and a synchronous living space.
A portion of the proceeds from this collection will be donated to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, an organization local to the brand’s US offices, a commitment made in lockstep with Graham & Brown’s pledge to raise £75,000 (about $105,000) for charities in 2021.
Migos and Pollen Presents Bring Culture III to Las Vegas
Four-Day Experience Taking Place in Las Vegas, October 14-17
Atlanta-based superstar rap trio Migos have unveiled the details to their long-awaited Culture III album, pairing its announcement with its first single, ‘Straightenin’. Accompanying the third installment of their acclaimed Culture series, Migos is partnering with experience curator Pollen Presents to bring Culture III to Las Vegas. The three-night getaway will take place October 14-17, bringing a packed itinerary of events including a star-studded lineup, pool parties and club takeovers, and a headlining Migos Culture III performance.
It seems only fitting that the larger-than-life trio of Offset, Quavo, and Takeoff chose Las Vegas for their first-ever curated experience. Where better could you live the Migos lifestyle? Pollen Presents Culture III will be your chance to step into the world of Migos as never before, as you enjoy an entirely Migos-curated Vegas experience, ranging across custom food and beverage menus, bespoke activities, musical guests and a community of fellow fans looking to make memories together.
Migos will bring along a stacked lineup of their favorite performers to the Vegas Strip, with some of hip hop’s hottest names joining them in the multi-day celebration. The weekend’s centerpiece will be one of the first live performances of Migos’ new Culture III album. Culture III will follow up 2018’s certified double-platinum Culture II, marking a return for the trio after they each released solo albums.
Many of Vegas’s top resorts and nightclubs will play host to a selection of pool parties and club takeovers, fully immersing fans in the world of Culture III. All venues to be announced at ticket on-sale coming soon.
Travel packages for Pollen Presents Culture III will include a four-day, three-night stay at some of the best hotels in Vegas, access to all pool parties and clubs, performances from Migos’ curated lineup, and of course, the headlining Culture III performance. Monthly payment plans are available in the lead up to the event with a $30 deposit and at no additional interest. Pollen Presents also offers a COVID-19 Money Back Guarantee making the event 100% refundable if it is cancelled or rescheduled due to COVID-19.
More information on rooms and prices can be found on the Pollen Presents website.
Pollen is a leading travel experience company, curating, and delivering the best experiences for members all over the world. Members enjoy experiences together, immersing themselves in multi-day itineraries that combine live entertainment, parties, and relaxation in more than 50 popular destinations, creating unforgettable memories. Members can discover and book these experiences exclusively on the Pollen website and the Pollen app. Pollen has already launched sold-out bespoke mini-breaks with mega stars like J Balvin, Marshawn Lynch and Ozuna.
About Pollen Pollen uses technology, a network of global partners, and a data-driven customer-led mindset to build, curate, and deliver the best travel experiences, pairing world class entertainment with the world’s most exciting destinations.
The cannabis trade is one of the fastest-growing industries in the US. Americans purchased $18.3 billion in cannabis products, a 71% increase over the prior year. However, hiring in this area still lags, and it’s one of the more competitive job markets. Those who are anxious for a position in a dispensary can do a few things to increase their odds of getting hired.
1. Become knowledgeable about cannabis products.
Learn about the different strains that are available and what flavors and experiences they offer. Be able to talk intelligently about hybrids, terpenes, and THC content. You can learn all of this and more by reading cannabis industry websites and newsletters. The more you know, the better a hire you’ll be.
2. Create a killer resume.
Your resume and cover letter make up your first impression. Construct yours so that it highlights the skills and experience that would make you a great budtender. No experience in the cannabis field? Consider a skill-based resume that highlights past customer service positions and education about cannabis.
Mirror the language used in the job ad. For instance, if they say they want someone who can establish rapport with customers, use that phrase when describing your skills. A resume isn’t just a record of your job history. It’s an important personal marketing tool. Customize yours for every job opening to increase your chances of landing the gig.
3. Highlight your customer service and sales skills.
Being able to provide a great experience to customers is a key to being a successful budtender. In your cover letter or in your interview, talk about what you consider a great visit to a cannabis dispensary and how you can make it happen for your customers.
Before your interview, think of a story you can share about a time you helped a customer make a decision. Or, describe a time that you used sales skills to increase company revenue. A former server, for instance, can describe how they convinced restaurant guests to stay for dessert or add a bottle of wine to a special meal.
4. Get familiar with the dispensaries in your area.
The more customized your approach, the more likely you are to win the job. If you live in the Oakland area, visit several Oakland dispensaries for research. Learn about the offerings and the look and feel of each. This gives you the tools you need to show that you are a cultural match for the shop.
5. Set yourself up for a lateral move.
If the position you want isn’t open or if it’s one that requires experience, don’t give up hope. Instead, change your strategy. Look for other job openings in the cannabis field. It doesn’t matter if it’s cleaning and maintenance, as long as you learn on the job and make an excellent impression. Once you are in, you are in a position to hear about new openings first. You can build up your resume and your knowledge to make you a better fit for the role that is your ultimate goal.
6. Use your networks.
Far more jobs are filled by word of mouth than by online job ads. Talk to the people who you know both personally and professionally. You may know someone who has a lead for a shop that is looking for new personnel.
7. Thank your interviewer.
If you get as far as an interview, make a good impression during and after by being friendly, open, and establishing good rapport. After your interview, take a few minutes to pen a hand-written thank you note for sharing their time with you. This used to be common job hunt etiquette, but has largely fallen out of favor. By making this unusual move, you can make yourself stick out from the crowd.
8. Emphasize your soft skills.
Most dispensaries aren’t just looking for someone to run a register. They want someone who is warm and approachable. Being able to put first-time visitors at ease is a soft skill that is vital for a successful dispensary worker. You should also be able to show that you are a good multitasker who can switch easily from task to task.
If you are passionate about cannabis and want to be part of this industry, that enthusiasm should come out in your resume, your cover letter and your interview. Take the time to hone your pitch to show your local dispensary that you are an excellent fit.
Georgia Tech Team Wins at Global College Entrepreneur Pitch Competition
Insight Optics, from the Georgia Institute of Technology, won third place at the Third Annual TiE University Global Pitch Competition held on May 15-16, 2021.
Representing TiE Atlanta, the Insight Optics team consists of Dr. Aaron Enten and TJ Lagrow. Their business venture delivers a mobile-adapted platform which enables primary care physicians to efficiently detect early signs of avoidable blindness before permanent damage is done. The team was mentored by Greg Cory, Neeti Dewan and Eric Ensor from TiE Atlanta.
The team received a $5,000 cash prize sponsored by the Naadam Foundation, and a $4,000 grant from the REAN Foundation. Insight Optics was “best in class” at the Startup Bootcamp hosted by TiE Silicon Valley in early May.
Insight Optics competed with 27 winning teams from across the globe including teams from TIE Chapters in seven countries across three continents. The teams were mentored by local TiE chapters and supported by global workshops, startup bootcamps and mock sessions. There were 526 startup teams with 1432 students that participated in local TiE chapter college competition rounds.
First prize went to TiE Toronto’s ALT TEX whose founders are from York University and the University of Toronto. Their venture focuses on sustainable textiles engineered from food waste by tackling two serious issues — food waste and the high levels of pollution caused by the fashion industry.
The second prize winner was TiE Dallas’ SURVIVR whose founder is from the University of Texas at Dallas. The company aims to make communities safer by providing immersive and humanized police training using virtual reality.
Chapter winners went through a semifinal round on May 15. The virtual event was viewed by over 500 audience members from around the world, and TiE Atlanta’s executive director, Amyn Sadruddin, was instrumental as the MC for a semifinals track. Worldwide teams pitched diverse business ideas such as bio-toilets, career fulfillment tools for higher education, technology-enabled artificial limbs, and tech kits for 21st century education, among others.
The event also featured a fireside conversation between Prof. Jagdish Sheth from Emory University in Atlanta and Mr. Ronnie Screwvala of Mumbai. The co-founder and chairman of Upgrad, an online edtech startup, Mr. Screwvala inspired young entrepreneurs to take risks. His book “Dream With Your Eyes Open” is a commitment to champion entrepreneurship and learn from failure.
This year, TiE University extended the concept of entrepreneurship to form a stronger ecosystem, even more strategically focused to dovetail multiple enablers, said Dr. Paul Lopez, Founder and Co-Chair of the TiE University Program. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, this year’s total cash prizes were $65,000, plus in-kind awards of over $600,000 to empower college entrepreneurs.
Eight university teams made it to the finals of the global pitch fest. In addition to the top three winning teams, the other finalists were TiE Austin’s Clocr, a digital legacy management and emergency planning platform; TiE Chennai’s Kitab, a digital PDF-Reader that redefines the way technical literature and textbooks are consumed; TiE Dubai’s Small World that connects NGOs and high school students; TiE DC’s Early Intervention Systems that builds software and algorithms to enhance elder-care; and TiE New Jersey’s Sulis, a low-cost water sanitization device.
The keynote speaker on Finals Day was Sheel Tyle, Founder/CEO of venture capital global firm Amplo. Interviewed by TiE Coimbatore’s Pradeep Yuvaraj, Tyle has some advice for entrepreneurs, Whether you spend time doing something small or doing something big, it actually takes the same time. If you’re going to spend your precious time on something, do it where your time has the greatest impact on the world.
About the TIE University Program
TiE University, an initiative of TIE Global, aims to foster entrepreneurship among college students. University startup teams gain access to learning resources, mentorship by successful entrepreneurs and opportunities to participate in Hackathons, Startup Bootcamps, and Pitch Competitions. These interactions and experiences help startups take their business from a campus idea into a viable business.
About TiE Atlanta
TiE Atlanta is a top five chapter of TiE Global, a nonprofit consisting of 61 chapters in 14 countries, that generates prosperity through development of entrepreneurs in all stages by creating community and beneficial relationships to support them. TiE Atlanta develops entrepreneurs and startups through mentoring, education, investment, and networking. Learn more at their website.
